Orpha B. Kablitz Barr Zeitelhack

Orpha B. Kablitz Barr Zeitelhack, age 97, of Tomahawk, WI, passed away peacefully on Tuesday, Sept. 17, 2019, at her home under the care of her family and Ascension Home Hospice. Orpha was born in Grant County, WI, on May 9, 1922, to the late Paul and Florence Kablitz.

In her younger years, Orpha worked as an artist, colorizing portraits at a local studio. Later, while working at a diner, she met her sweetheart, Robert (Bob) L. Zeitelhack, and they married in 1947. They recently celebrated their 72nd wedding anniversary. Orpha and Bob had two children, Don and Donna.

Orpha and Bob moved to sunny California in 1951 where she raised her two children while Bob was on the police force. She enjoyed traveling the world with him and soon joined the Beta Sigma Do sorority as a lifetime member. In 1976, Bob retired and they moved back to the homestead in Tomahawk where she was a faithful member of the St. Paul Lutheran Church. In recent years, she had volunteered to crochet sweaters for the church to send to children in need overseas.

Orpha is survived by her Husband, Robert (Bob) Zeitelhack, of Tomahawk; her Daughter, Donna (Bill) Gillespie, of San Diego, CA; two Grandchildren, Cody (Ben) Lee, and Jodi Gillespie; her Brother, Paul Kablitz, and many other family members.

She was preceded in death by her First Husband, James W. Barr; and her Son, Don Roger Zeitelhack.

In accordance with Orpha’s wishes, no formal services will be held at this time. Generations Funeral Home & Crematory, Tomahawk, is assisting the family. You may view Orpha’s obituary and leave online condolences at generationsfuneral.com.